Braces are a common orthodontic treatment for misaligned teeth. As a matter of fact, in the United States alone, four million Americans wear braces, with a majority of this number being teens. The treatment process for braces can take anywhere from one year to three years.
During this period, it is common to experience staining on your teeth even after maintaining good oral hygiene. This is because it becomes difficult to clean off the plaque that forms around the brackets and behind the wires of the braces. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure that your teeth do not stain:
Brushing and Flossing After Every Meal
While dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice daily, when you have braces, you should brush your teeth after every meal. While this may seem like a time-consuming task, the best way to remove plaque and prevent the stains from forming is to brush your teeth.
Limit the Intake of Sugary Foods
It is important to limit the sugary foods you consume when you have braces. Sugary foods are one of the major causes of tooth decay and can also contribute to tooth stains. It is best to avoid sugary foods such as candy, carbonated drinks, and desserts to prevent the discoloration of teeth. Sticky and sugary foods can cause staining and decalcification when they interact with bacteria in the mouth.
Keep Up With Dental Appointments
It is always important to keep up with your dental appointments, especially when you have braces. During these appointments, the dentist can assess your progress and make adjustments in the treatment process. The dentist will also assess the health of your teeth, and if your teeth have already stained, the dentist may recommend a cleaning. During the cleaning process, the dentist can get rid of hardened plaque on the teeth. Once your braces come off, you may notice some staining. This is normal, and you will require professional teeth whitening to get rid of the stains.
Dentist Natick, MA | Elite Dental of Natick Above all else, we here at Elite Dental of Natick want our dental patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Call us today to schedule an appointment! Elite Dental of Natick, 232 Pond St., Natick, MA 01760 ~ (508) 319-9339 ~ elitedentalofnatick.com ~ 10/13/2024 ~ Page Terms:Dentist Natick MA ~